The Social Scene

Each month we create a new challenge for our readers to try to improve their health and wellness.

This month we are challenging you to put yourself out there, to break out of your shell and to throw the word “anxiety” out of your vocabulary for good.

The Issue

More than 200,000 cases of social anxiety are diagnosed in the United States every year, making anxiety a chronic mental health condition. In grade school, a smile was likely to land you a friend plus a partner for science fair—it’s not as easy for grown-ups. Simply placing yourself in social situations is one thing; befriending new acquaintances is a whole new ball game.

The

Challenge

Overcome your social anxiety by continuing (or starting) to put yourself out there.

BE THE FIRST TO SHARE SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF. Meeting someone new? Instead of limiting yourself to a conversation based on typical small talk, why not share a funny story or talk about something you are passionate about once the preliminary questions wind down? Once you let your wall down, others will likely follow suit.

ASK INTERESTING QUESTIONS. Everyone is unique, everyone has a funny quirk and everyone has a talent. Ask questions about your future pal, and find out what it is about them that you are going to like best. The best questions can even be a little bit goofy. Giving someone the right to brag can be fun— at least for a little while.

SWITCH OFF YOUR IMAGINATION. Use your imagination constructively, not to scare yourself. Trying to imagine what people are thinking, why they just crossed their arms or what they meant by that last comment is enough to drive you insane. Don’t overthink things. We can’t control what people think of us, but we can influence it. Use your first impression to knock em’ dead.

BE YOURSELF. We saved the most simple (and sometimes the hardest) advice for last. Be yourself. It works. Trying to come off as perfect is not the key to confidence. In fact, showing people the less-thanperfect side of your personality may just work to your advantage. Just remember, no one is perfect.

A Better Option?

Phenylephrine is an FDA-approved drug that is intended to relieve sinus congestion. It can be found in any overthe-counter section of your local pharmacy.

However, a recent study conducted by the Allergy & Asthma Medical Group & Research Center in San Diego discovered that phenylephrine’s regular dosage is no more effective than a placebo in relieving sinus congestion. That being said, scientists suggest patients consider using non-prescription oral pseudoephedrine or another alternative, such as topical decongestant sprays, when treating sinus congestion.